How do I optimize material usage when building a boathouse?

Building a boathouse in Valheim requires careful planning to optimize material usage and ensure durability. Start by selecting a location near water, preferably in the Meadows biome, as it offers flat terrain and easy access to resources. The boathouse should be close enough to the shoreline to allow easy boat access but elevated slightly to prevent flooding during storms. Use the Hoe tool to level the ground and create a stable foundation, which reduces the need for excessive support beams.\n\nWhen designing the structure, prioritize using Core Wood for beams and supports, as it is stronger than regular Wood and allows for larger spans. Core Wood is obtained by chopping down Pine Trees in the Black Forest biome. For walls and roofing, regular Wood is sufficient, but consider using thatch roofing to save on Wood resources. Thatch roofing requires only 2 Wood per piece, making it a cost-effective option for large structures like boathouses.\n\nTo minimize material waste, plan the layout before building. Use the Hammer tool to preview the structure and ensure all pieces align correctly. Start with the foundation, placing Wooden Beams or Core Wood Beams to outline the perimeter. Then, build the walls and roof, ensuring they are supported by beams to prevent collapse. Avoid overbuilding by keeping the structure compact and functional. For example, a boathouse only needs enough space to store one or two boats, with a small area for crafting or storage.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with uneven terrain or water levels. To address this, use the Hoe to raise or lower the ground as needed. If the water is too shallow, dig a small channel using the Pickaxe to allow boats to enter and exit smoothly. Additionally, consider building a dock extending into deeper water to make boat access easier. Use Wooden Beams or Core Wood Beams for the dock, as they are durable and can withstand waves.\n\nTo further optimize material usage, recycle unused or misplaced pieces. Use the Hammer tool to dismantle any unnecessary structures and recover materials. This is especially useful if you make a mistake during construction. Additionally, gather resources efficiently by bringing a Cart or Portal to transport materials quickly. Portals are particularly useful for transporting Wood and Core Wood from the Black Forest to your boathouse location.\n\nFinally, reinforce the boathouse to protect it from storms and enemy raids. Use Stone or Iron reinforcements for critical areas like the foundation and supports. Stone is obtained by mining rocks in the Meadows or Black Forest, while Iron is found in Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome. Reinforcing the structure ensures it lasts longer and reduces the need for frequent repairs.\n\nIn summary, optimizing material usage when building a boathouse involves careful planning, efficient resource gathering, and smart design choices. Use Core Wood for supports, thatch roofing for cost-effectiveness, and reinforce critical areas with Stone or Iron. By following these steps, you can create a durable and functional boathouse without wasting valuable resources.